How to Get a Press-Ready PDF from Canva: A Step-by-Step Guide

| Digital Printing / How To / Marketing / Offset printing

When it comes to printing professionally, sending a print-ready PDF is crucial. If you’re using Canva to create designs, following these steps will ensure your file is ready for the press and save you both time and money.

Step 1: Set the Correct Dimensions and Bleed

Before you start designing, make sure you set your file to the correct dimensions. Here’s how:

  • Go to the “Custom Size” option in Canva and input your required size to make a new document.
  • Enable bleed by clicking on “File” then “Settings” and selecting “Show Print Bleed.” This will ensure your design extends slightly beyond the edge for a clean cut.

Step 2: Use CMYK-Friendly Colors

Printing uses CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) colors, but Canva works in RGB. To ensure your design prints correctly:

  • Stick to colors that translate well to CMYK by avoiding overly bright or neon tones.
  • When you download it, use the “Color Profile” menu to convert your design to CMYK.

Step 3: Embed Fonts and Graphics

To avoid issues with missing fonts or blurry images:

  • Make sure any fonts or graphics you use in Canva are either uploaded at high resolution or are Canva-provided assets.
  • Avoid using very thin fonts or intricate details, which may not print clearly.

 

Step 4: Export as a Print-Ready PDF

Once your design is complete:

  • Click “Share” in the upper right corner.

Then select, “Download”. 

Under “File Type,”  choose “PDF Print.”

  • Click the boxes for both “Crop Marks and Bleed” and “Flatten PDF” to prevent layers from shifting during printing. Learn more about crop marks and bleeds here and flattened PDFs here.
  • As mentioned above, switch the color profile to CMYK. Read more about why here.

Step 5: Review the PDF

Before sending the file to your printer, open the PDF and review it carefully:

  • Check that the bleed, crop marks, and content are correctly aligned.
  • Confirm all text is readable, images are clear, and no crucial elements are cut off.

Following these five steps will make sure your Canva designs are press-ready, avoiding costly reprints and delays.

Download / Print This Guide